Behind the Case: Dismantling a Stolen Vehicle Crime Series in Mesa

Stolen vehicle cases are often viewed as isolated incidents. Many are part of broader, organized operations that cause significant financial loss, victimization across jurisdictions, and long-term community harm.

In 2025, Mesa Police detectives identified and dismantled a sophisticated stolen vehicle crime series that extended well beyond a single theft. Through months of detailed investigative work, four individuals were charged in connection with a coordinated operation responsible for multiple felony offenses across Mesa and neighboring jurisdictions.

The investigation revealed that between May and August 2025, the primary suspect was connected to the theft of seven vehicles valued at more than $267,000, along with the possession and use of stolen credit cards. What initially appeared to be opportunistic vehicle theft quickly evolved into a far more complex case involving organized planning, financial exploitation, and the recruitment of juveniles into criminal activity.

Detectives uncovered evidence showing the operation relied on advanced methods to steal vehicles and evade detection. This included the use of reprogrammed key fobs, specialized ignition-bypass tools, and sophisticated digital tactics such as private VPNs, aliases, and use of online marketplaces. Investigators also determined that the suspect used online platforms to communicate with buyers who provided specific price lists based on vehicle make, model, and year.

Search warrants executed during the investigation uncovered extensive evidence, including numerous electronic key fobs, vehicle reprogramming devices, stolen identification and credit cards, as well as firearms. Digital evidence further demonstrated deliberate efforts to monitor law enforcement activity and avoid apprehension.

A particularly concerning aspect of the case involved the grooming and recruitment of at-risk juveniles, who were directed to participate in vehicle thefts and related crimes. As a result of the investigation, multiple juveniles were referred to the appropriate authorities, and coordination with the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office ensured both adult and juvenile accountability.

The investigation culminated in the arrest of the primary adult suspect, who was taken into custody following court proceedings. Prosecutors requested a $250,000 bond, reflecting the scope and seriousness of the offenses. The case includes multiple felony counts from both Mesa and Gilbert cases.

This case highlights the persistence and coordination required to dismantle organized property crime. It also reflects the behind-the-scenes work that often goes unseen — where detectives methodically connect financial records, digital evidence, victim reports, and interagency intelligence to stop ongoing criminal activity and prevent future harm.

---

Why Stolen Vehicle Crime Matters

Organized vehicle theft is not just a property crime. These cases often involve:

·         Financial exploitation through stolen credit cards and identities

·         Vehicles being resold or trafficked across jurisdictions

·         Increased insurance costs and financial hardship for victims

·         The involvement and exploitation of juveniles in criminal activity

·         Links to additional crimes, including fraud, weapons offenses, and drug activity

Successfully dismantling organized theft operations protects victims, disrupts criminal networks, and prevents further exploitation.

Behind the Case: How a Mesa Investigation Helped Stop a Valley-Wide Copper Theft Operation

Copper theft is often dismissed as a property crime, but its real-world consequences are significant. These crimes damage critical infrastructure, disrupt transportation systems, and create serious safety hazards — all while costing taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars.

In late 2024, Mesa Police officers responded to an in-progress commercial burglary near the Loop 202 after a City of Mesa employee, monitoring live CCTV footage, observed suspects actively stealing copper wire from electrical junction boxes. What began as a single call for service quickly developed into a complex, multi-jurisdictional investigation.

Officers arriving on scene detained two suspects while a third fled into adjacent freeway property. A pickup truck linked to the suspects was located nearby, along with large quantities of cut and stripped copper wire, towing straps, tools, and evidence indicating the wire had been forcibly pulled from electrical infrastructure. Surveillance footage confirmed the method used — attaching tow straps to copper wiring and using a vehicle to rip it from junction boxes.

As the investigation continued, detectives uncovered a broader pattern of organized copper theft activity occurring across the Valley. Through search warrants, digital forensic analysis, and surveillance review, investigators were able to connect the suspects to additional thefts impacting multiple jurisdictions and agencies, including freeway infrastructure.

The investigation required extensive coordination between patrol officers, detectives, digital forensics investigators, utility partners, and outside agencies. Evidence collected over several weeks helped establish planning, movement patterns, and the scope of damage caused by the suspects’ actions.

Ultimately, the case was brought to a successful resolution in Maricopa County Superior Court. One of the primary suspects was convicted and sentenced to 2.5 years in the Arizona Department of Corrections.

In addition to prison time, the court ordered restitution to the agencies impacted by the thefts:

·         Avondale: $14,043

·         Arizona Department of Transportation: $190,000

·         Peoria: $33,734.25

In total, more than $237,000 in restitution was ordered — holding the offender accountable for the widespread damage caused to public infrastructure.

Cases like this highlight the importance of proactive policing, strong partnerships, and long-term investigative follow-through. Copper theft investigations are often complex and resource-intensive, but their impact reaches far beyond property loss. Successfully dismantling this operation helped protect critical systems, reduce future risk, and reinforce accountability across the region.

This case also serves as a reminder that behind-the-scenes investigative work — much of which the public never sees — plays a vital role in keeping communities safe and protecting taxpayer resources.

---

Why Copper Theft Is a Serious Crime

Copper theft is not a victimless offense. When copper is stolen from electrical boxes, utility lines, or transportation infrastructure, the consequences can include:

·         Traffic signal outages and freeway disruptions that increase crash risk

·         Power interruptions impacting homes, businesses, and emergency systems

·         Significant repair costs borne by taxpayers and public agencies

·         Safety hazards for motorists, pedestrians, and utility workers

·         Delayed emergency response times when infrastructure is compromised

These crimes often require extensive repairs and coordinated response from multiple agencies. Holding offenders accountable helps protect critical systems that communities rely on every day.

Fitch Park Dog Incident

What Happened During the Fitch Park Incident on November 29, 2025

Just before 3:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025, Mesa Police officers were patrolling Fitch Park at 651 N. Center Street. The park was closed at the time—Mesa parks are closed from 10 p.m. until sunrise—and officers found 37-year-old Jarell White sleeping on a table, which is a violation of Mesa City Code 6-10-3(A).

As officers walked up to speak with Jarell, an unleashed pit bull–mix began growling from the tabletop. One officer stopped and backed up to create distance, but within seconds the dog jumped down from the table and charged toward them—barking, growling, and snapping.

One officer continued backing away, while the second officer fired three shots to prevent an imminent bite. According to current department policy, officers are authorized to use force to stop an immediate threat, including from an aggressive animal. After the shots were fired, the dog ran off.

Officers Attempted to Help the Injured Dog

Additional officers were called in to help, as the scene had not yet been deemed safe. Once more units arrived, officers tried to help the injured dog. However, the dog continued to act aggressively, growling at officers who attempted to approach. Using a snare, officers were eventually able to walk the dog to a patrol car and transport it to a nearby animal hospital. The transport happened within six minutes of the encounter.

Body-worn camera footage captured officers telling Jarell, while on scene, “Your dog is going to the vet at Country Club and McClellan,” making it clear that he was informed of the dog’s location.

At the animal hospital, multiple officers told veterinary staff that the dog had an owner. Medical staff evaluated the dog and determined that the injuries were too severe for surgery. Based on veterinary standards, they made the decision to euthanize the dog. Officers were not present in the operating room when those medical decisions were made.

Later that evening, just before 8:00 p.m., a Central Station Watch Commander also notified a woman named Bertha—believed to be Jarell’s mother—of the dog’s location. This means two different people were informed on two separate occasions, which is also supported by body-worn camera footage.

Review of the Incident

As with all use-of-force incidents, the department is conducting a full review to ensure all actions align with department policy and Arizona law. Initial findings indicate the officer’s response was consistent with policy when confronted with an aggressive, charging dog.

Mesa Police officers receive training on dealing with aggressive animals, de-escalation techniques, and humane handling. This incident has also been forwarded to the Critical Incident Review Board for a more comprehensive evaluation.

Summary

This incident is undoubtedly distressing for everyone involved, and we recognize the emotional impact that the loss of a pet can have on its owner and the community. While officers were required to respond to an immediate threat to ensure public and officer safety, we understand that the outcome is painful and deeply unfortunate. The Mesa Police Department remains committed to transparency, compassionate service, and a thorough review of the incident to ensure that our policies, training, and actions continue to reflect the highest standards of care for both our residents and their animals.

As our commitment to transparency, below is the body worn camera footage of the incident. 

VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED

 

Mesa Police Arrest Teacher for Aggravated Assault on Student

Mesa, AZ – Mesa police officers arrested 52-year-old American Leadership Academy (ALA) teacher, Nathan Hansen for aggravated assault.

On November 6, 2025, shortly after 3:00 p.m., Mesa Police Officers were dispatched to American Leadership Academy on the 7000 block of Pecos Road in Mesa AZ, following a report that a teacher had physically assaulted a student.

Officers learned that the teacher, identified as 52-year-old Nathan Hansen, was involved in a physical altercation with a 14-year-old male student during a physical education class during school hours. According to initial reports, the incident occurred after the student approached Nathan and attempted to take a phone from his hand. Nathan then allegedly pushed the student to the ground and then dragged him by the back of his hoodie.

Detectives from the Mesa Police Special Victims Unit were notified and assisted with the investigation. Surveillance video reviewed by detectives showed Nathan shoving the student to the ground, grabbing him by the back of his hoodie, and dragging him off the basketball court before sliding him against the bleachers. The student suffered minor injuries as a result.

After reviewing the footage and conducting interviews, investigators determined there was probable cause to arrest Nathan for aggravated assault by an adult on a minor under 15 years of age. Nathan was contacted at his residence, interviewed, and subsequently arrested for aggravated assault.

Prohibited Possessor Arrested After Stolen Firearm Brought into Gun Shop

On the afternoon of September 25, 2025, Mesa Police made a significant arrest following a tip from local firearms store employees. The incident began when three individuals walked into Guns 2 Ammo, located at 6030 E. Main Street, requesting a repair. During the request, one of them produced a handgun, which staff ran through their internal verification system. The firearm — a Sig Sauer P365 — came back as stolen.

When officers arrived, they detained 36-year-old William Lawlor and his two companions. Video surveillance from the store showed Lawlor handing the firearm to staff. A closer inspection confirmed the serial number matched the stolen-gun report.

During subsequent interviews, Lawlor admitted he had agreed to bring the gun in for a battery replacement, stating it was given to him earlier that day by someone who goes by the street name “Jolly.” He refused, however, to offer up a real name or further details. Lawlor acknowledged that because of prior felony convictions, he was a prohibited possessor and understood that he was legally barred from having a firearm.

While being taken into custody, officers located drug paraphernalia that Lawlor admitted was for fentanyl use earlier in the day. Lawlor complained of chest pain and was evaluated by Mesa Fire/EMS before being cleared and transported to jail.

Lawlor was arrested and booked on the following charges:

• Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Possessor (Class 4 Felony)
• Theft / Control of Stolen Property (Class 6 Felony)
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Misdemeanor – cited and released)

The companions were interviewed and subsequently released without charges.

This case underscores how cooperation between law enforcement and local firearms retailers can help prevent stolen weapons from being used in the community. Guns 2 Ammo staff’s vigilance and timely decision to contact police played a pivotal role in the safe recovery of the stolen firearm.

Mesa Police Arrest Armed Prohibited Possessor After Dangerous Domestic Incident

On September 24, 2025, just before midnight, Mesa Police officers responded to a report of a family fight near Sirrine Avenue and Southern Avenue. The 911 caller reported that her stepfather, 45-year-old Jesse Almeida, was intoxicated, armed with a handgun, and had threatened her mother.

When officers arrived, they saw a white truck matching the description given by the caller. Officers attempted to contact Almeida outside the residence. Instead of complying, Almeida became aggressive, removed his shirt, shouted profanities, and advanced toward officers while ignoring repeated commands.

Due to reports that Almeida was armed, officers deployed less-lethal options, including a Taser and beanbag rounds, until they were able to safely take him into custody. A loaded handgun was recovered from Almeida’s back pocket at the time of his arrest.

Further investigation revealed that Almeida, a convicted felon and prohibited possessor, had also fired multiple rounds from both a handgun and a rifle during the incident. Several family members and witnesses confirmed hearing and seeing gunfire, both in the front yard of the residence and as Almeida drove away in his truck. Detectives recovered spent shell casings, ammunition, and multiple firearms from the home and vehicle.

Almeida later admitted to detectives that he fired rounds from a rifle into the ground near the residence and discharged additional rounds from his vehicle while driving away. He also admitted to being in possession of both the rifle and handgun, despite his felony convictions prohibiting him from having firearms.

Almeida was arrested and booked on multiple felony charges, including:

• Misconduct Involving Weapons – Prohibited Possessor (2 counts)
• Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm within City Limits (2 counts)
• Disorderly Conduct – Recklessly Discharging a Firearm

This was a dangerous situation for everyone involved—family members, neighbors, and responding officers. Thanks to quick teamwork, officers were able to take Almeida into custody without deadly force and remove multiple firearms from his possession.

Mesa Police remain committed to addressing gun violence, especially when prohibited possessors put families and the community at risk.

Residential Burglary Suspects Arrested, Stolen Firearm and Property Recovered

On August 17, 2025, Mesa Police officers responded to a report of a residential burglary at an apartment near Recker Road and Brown Road. The victim, who had been away from the residence for several weeks, returned to find his home ransacked and numerous items missing. Property stolen included several televisions, gaming consoles, personal belongings, and a Marlin .45-70 lever action rifle with accessories.

Mesa Crime Scene Specialists processed the scene and collected evidence, including fingerprints. Forensic analysis later identified a match belonging to 36-year-old Manal Martinez Aljoborri, who resided in the same complex. Investigators also identified her boyfriend, 45-year-old Joseph Chase, as a possible suspect. Both are convicted felons and prohibited from possessing firearms. Aljoborri also had active Mesa warrants at the time.

Working with Maricopa County Adult Probation, detectives arranged a meeting with Aljoborri on September 25, 2025. She was taken into custody without incident. A probation search of her residence led to the recovery of multiple items stolen from the victim’s home, including televisions, gaming consoles, personal memorabilia, and the stolen Marlin rifle. Chase was also located at the residence and detained.

During interviews, both suspects admitted to entering the victim’s residence and taking property. Chase confirmed his involvement in stealing the firearm, while Aljoborri acknowledged taking additional items, including sports memorabilia with the victim’s name. Both suspects admitted to knowing they were prohibited from possessing firearms due to their felony convictions.

Both Aljoborri and Chase were arrested and booked into the Mesa City Detention Facility. They face charges including:

• Burglary in the Second Degree (ARS 13-1507A)
• Theft/Control of Stolen Property (ARS 13-1802A1)
• Prohibited Possessor of a Firearm (ARS 13-3102A4)

The stolen property was returned to the victim.

This case is an example of the persistence and teamwork between patrol officers, detectives, forensic specialists, and probation officers. Their thorough follow-up not only held the suspects accountable but also ensured the victim’s property was returned — including the recovery of a stolen firearm that could have posed a serious risk to the community.

What is Mesa Police Department’s Involvement with the 287(g) Program?

The Mesa Police Department’s Involvement with the 287 (g) Jail Enforcement Model Program

The 287(g) Jail Enforcement Model serves as an immigration enforcement partnership with state and local law enforcement agencies.

On November 19, 2009, the Mesa Police Department (MPD) signed the first 287(g) Jail Enforcement Model Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and it has remained unchanged since, despite changes in immigration enforcement policy by subsequent republican and democratic administrations. The current 287(g) MOA went into effect on June 8, 2020, and will remain in effect until either party terminates or suspends the agreement.

Why discuss 287(g) Jail Enforcement Model now, years after the agreement went into effect?

We discuss it now because there is a lot of misinformation circulating about what Mesa Police Department does and doesn’t do regarding immigration and the 287(g) Jail Enforcement Model program.

Mesa police officers do not actively search for and/or arrest immigrants who may be undocumented, nor do they randomly ask anyone about their legal status. The 287(g) Jail Enforcement Model only applies to individuals who have been arrested for a criminal offense and are in the Mesa Police holding facility.

Mesa’s 287g Jail Enforcement Model ONLY targets criminals:

Enforcement of Mesa's 287(g) Jail Enforcement Model agreement is strictly limited to individuals who have already been arrested and charged with a crime and operates only within the Mesa Police Department’s holding facility. This means immigration screenings only occur after someone has committed a criminal offense and has been booked into Mesa’s custody through the regular criminal justice process.

The program does not target law-abiding community members or conduct community sweeps - it exclusively focuses on individuals already in custody for criminal activity.

Community Safety is the Top Priority:

Mesa Police Department’s role is to ensure the safety of all residents. Changing the focus of Mesa Police from public safety to immigration advocacy would ultimately harm our community. Mesa deserves a police department that can thoroughly investigate crimes and follow the law without restrictions that may prevent it from protecting the community; therefore, rest assured, Mesa Police will NOT ask about the immigration status of victims or witnesses of crimes. In fact, we support non-citizen victims of crime through the difficult justice process in appropriate situations by certifying applications for the U-Visa program. This program ensures protection and justice for these individuals without fear.

We encourage all community members to cooperate with law enforcement for the overall safety of everyone in the city of Mesa.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, while 287(g) Jail Enforcement Model may sound alarming at first, the program has been successful in identifying gang members, sex offenders, and murderers. These offenders are taken into ICE custody after serving their criminal sentences and then removed from our community.

East Valley Church Pastor Arrested

On Wednesday May 28th, 2025, Mesa Police received information that 61-year-old Stanley Jay, a Pastor at an East Mesa church, engaged in sexual relations with a 16-year-old girl. The 16-year-old girl and her mother were active members of the church.

Officers learned that over the past year, Jay allegedly made inappropriate sexual remarks towards the 16-year-old and sexually abused and molested her. Officers also discovered text messages between Jay and the victim where he asked the victim for sexually explicit photographs.

 

On Wednesday July 23, 2025, Stanley Jay was arrested and booked into jail for the following charges:

ARS 13-1405A- Sexual Conduct with a Minor (3 counts)

ARS 13-1410A- Molestation of a Child

ARS 13-3553A- Luring a Minor for Sexual Exploitation (2 counts)

ARS 13-1404A- Sexual Abuse (3 counts)

 

Jay is currently being held on a $200,000 bond.

 

Anyone with additional information is urged to contact the Mesa Police Department at 480-644-2211. Callers wishing to remain anonymous should contact Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS (480-948-6377) or 480-TESTIGO (480-837-8446). An anonymous tip can be submitted online using this link: Silent Witness.

Suspect Arrest Marks Mesa Police 100% Homicide Clearance Rate in 2024

On April 21, 2024, at 1:00am Mesa police officers responded to 4055 N Recker Rd reference a shooting call in which 23-year-old Gavin Wadzinski was found dead on a sidewalk. Officers worked tirelessly to find out what happened but were unable to locate any witnesses to the shooting.

 After serving several search warrants, investigators learned that Gavin wanted to buy a gun and Marijuana from then 17-year-old Devin Moll. Both men agreed to meet, and Moll described the vehicle he would be arriving in. Investigators collected and watched traffic surveillance footage, looking for the vehicle Moll described. They found one vehicle that displayed a unique headlight pattern in the area of the murder at the time it occurred. With this information, investigators gathered more videos throughout the city that showed this same vehicle with unusual headlights and used the videos to create a path that ultimately helped them locate Moll.

 Moll was arrested on April 1, 2025, and booked into jail for one count of Second-Degree Murder. He is being held on a $1,000,000 bond.

 Multiple units within the Mesa Police Department worked diligently on this case and spent many hours making sure all evidence was discovered and used to efficiently affect Moll’s arrest. Moll’s arrest marks the 100 percent homicide clearance rate for the year 2024 for the Mesa Police Department.

 

   Unique headlight pattern.